Repairs: drainage

In rural properties it is common to find septic tank or cesspit systems. Many are of considerable age, and are often rendered brick chambers. In the author's experience these rarely operate efficiently.

With the number of modern appliances discharging into what might be a very aged drain system, failure is highly likely.

There is a good chance that a completely new private drain installation will be needed. This will need to perform to a much higher standard than the original septic tank.

If works involve an extension to a property that has a septic tank, put the building owner on notice that there may be considerable implications to carrying out extension works – well beyond the superficial building works envisaged.

Note: If the system is failing, the building owner could be liable for any effluent and contamination discharged into the groundwater or nearby watercourses.

Solution

Guidance is set out in the Environment Agency publication Prevention of Pollution Guidance for Performance Standards for Septic Tank Systems. Over recent years the standards have become increasingly robust. This publication includes advice about percolation testing and related issues.

You may need to arrange chemical testing to establish the source of a leak, if discharge from the system cannot be obviously attributed to a defective septic system. Alternatively you may need to consult a specialist contractor to investigate the performance and capacity of the system.

Testing is likely to involve specialist equipment, including a gas-monitoring rig and breathing equipment – all the more reason to call on specialist assistance!